Christmas in London 2026: Mayfair, Winter Wonderland and New Year on the Thames

Published 11 October 2026 · ATLAS MAISON editorial team

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

19 November 2026 – 3 January 2027

Christmas Day

Friday 25 December; London’s public transport does not run

Boxing Day

Saturday 26 December

New Year’s Eve

Thursday 31 December; the Thames fireworks are ticketed

Airports

Heathrow, London City; Farnborough and Luton for private aviation

Official sources

hydeparkwinterwonderland.com · london.gov.uk

London in December is lit, festive and busy. The grand hotels of Mayfair and Knightsbridge dress their façades, the department stores unveil their windows, and Hyde Park becomes Winter Wonderland from 19 November 2026 to 3 January 2027.

A festive visit rewards careful planning: the best suites, Christmas Day tables and New Year’s Eve viewing are reserved early, and the city works differently on the holidays themselves. Here is how to do it well.

Where to stay

Mayfair and Knightsbridge put you within walking distance of Hyde Park, Bond Street and the department stores, and close to many of London’s best restaurants. For families, a serviced residence with separate bedrooms and a kitchen can be more comfortable than adjoining hotel rooms over a long stay. Read hotel, villa or serviced apartment?

What to see and do

• Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, from 19 November 2026 to 3 January 2027: rides, an ice rink, markets and shows. Timed tickets are sold through the official website.
• The lights and the windows of Regent Street, Oxford Street, Bond Street and the great department stores, at their best after dark.
• Afternoon tea in the grand hotels, with festive menus that book up weeks in advance.
• Theatre, ballet and concerts: the West End and the great venues programme their best-loved productions for the season.
• Private shopping appointments with luxury houses, outside the busiest hours.

Christmas Day: plan ahead

London’s public transport does not run on Christmas Day, and many shops and restaurants close. Restaurants that do open usually serve a set Christmas lunch or dinner, often requiring pre-payment, and the best are reserved early. We secure your table, arrange a driver for the day, and make sure your hotel or residence has everything you need.

New Year’s Eve on the Thames

London’s New Year’s Eve fireworks on the Thames are watched from ticketed viewing areas along the river, which sell out early. Alternatives include a private dinner with a view of the river, a hotel celebration, or a quieter evening away from the centre. As on Christmas Day, a driver is the most reliable way home.

Event dates are as published by the organisers and may change. Always confirm with the official source.